Frequently asked questions

On this page is a list of frequently asked questions about the role of a firefighter in Cheshire and the recruitment process in Cheshire.

How long do the online assessments take?

Behavioural styles questionnaire - Untimed, to be completed by the registration closing date

  • Situational judgement test - Untimed, to be completed by the registration closing date

  • Verbal reasoning - Timed, 25 minutes allowed

  • Mechanical reasoning - Timed, 25 minutes allowed

  • Numerical reasoning - Timed, 25 minutes allowed

Ensure that you are in a quiet and calm environment to take the assessments and that you have sufficient time to complete. Please note: you only have one attempt!

I’m dyslexic, will I be able to cope with the written tests?

Dyslexia is classed as a disability and you will be asked if you have a disability as part of the recruitment process.

Please note, any reasonable adjustments will only be put in place for the timed assessments.

Can I do the written tests at Service Headquarters?

Unfortunately no, all tests must be completed online.

How will you contact me to let me know to attend practical tests / interview / medical?

All correspondence will be by email. It is important that you check your email including your spam/ junk folders regularly for invitations to the different parts of the process.

Emails will only be sent to the email address you registered your account with.

Do I have to be a certain height or weight to apply?

No. This is a popular misconception as there used to be restrictions on height, weight and chest expansion, but this is now no longer the case.

How long will the recruitment process take?

There is further information on our website showing the timetable of the recruitment process. It is important that candidates make a note of the dates of the different stages of the process as there is not scope for dates to be changed or alternative dates to be offered.

Will having a criminal record prevent me from applying?

Having a criminal record will not necessarily prevent you from working for us. If you have a conviction the Service will consider its nature, its relevance to the role of firefighter, the sentence, patterns of offending and the length of time since the offence.

What qualifications do I need to apply?

Successful candidates will be appointed as an Apprentice Firefighter and will undertake the Level 3 Operational Firefighter Apprenticeship standard, which will typically take up to 18 months to complete.

In order to apply therefore, you must at least possess one or both GCSE qualifications in Maths and English, with a minimum grade of C/4 or equivalent. Where you do not possess the required grade or equivalent qualification, in one of these areas i.e. Maths or English, you will be required to achieve the qualification as part of the apprenticeship and support will be provided to you through our educational provider.

Can I choose which Station to work at?

Unfortunately no. Candidates will be placed at Stations where there are vacancies.

I have a beard for religious reasons, will I have to shave it off in order to be a firefighter?

Unfortunately yes. The Service respects everyone’s religious beliefs but there are health and safety reasons as to why facial hair cannot be accepted.

I wear glasses / have had laser eye surgery, can I apply?

Yes. Part of the recruitment process will include a medical and this will include an eye test. Our Occupational Health Physician will determine whether your vision meets the standards to become a firefighter.

I have a disability, can I apply?

Yes, anyone who considers themselves to have a disability can apply to join the fire service.

Can I have a second job?

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service has a policy on secondary employment. Employees cannot engage in this without first obtaining written approval.

What happens next if I am successful with my online application?

Once the closing date has passed you will receive an email from us only if you have been successful which will invite you to a practical selection test day.

What happens next if I am unsuccessful with my online application?

Due to the high volume of interest we regret that it is not possible to inform candidates individually of the result of their application or provide feedback.

I live outside of the Cheshire boundary. Can I still apply?

Yes

What is the minimum age you can apply to become a Firefighter?

You must be at least 18 years of age at the start of the training course taking place.

What is the maximum age you can apply to become a Firefighter?

There is no maximum age.

Will I need a full driving license?

Yes. A full UK driving license is a pre-requisite for the role of a firefighter.

Do I need to be able to swim?

Yes, you have to be able to swim 50m in a recognised stroke by 31 March 2025. The ability to swim is necessary as we have so many areas of water across the county and are called out for water rescues. All our firefighters are swift-water trained. If you can’t swim there are lots of places in Cheshire where you can learn or build up your stamina.







Last updated: Wednesday, 14 August 2024


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